96 Johnson 150 Faststrike-replaced fuel line will no longer start

[rcautox]

Have a 1996 Johnson 150 FastStrike. Boat would not start/turn over and discovered a cut in the old fuel line. Per recommendation from this forum I replaced it with a 3/8"ID fuel line I purchased from Bass Pro. To replace I pulled the old line off the thru hull metal fitting (which goes to the gas tank) and off of the engine. Cut the new line to a similar length and put it one. Used metal, ratchet style clamps (worm screw I think...tighten with a screwdriver) to tighten at each end. Pumped fuel bulb (took alot of pumping). Eventually boat turned over. Took it out today. 2nd time starting engine it would not start/turn over. Found fuel bulb would not really stay firm. Sounds like air could be in the bulb. Therefore I believe either I installed the fuel line improperly (maybe need to fill line with fuel before attaching to engine?) although I did ensure flow was towards engine lol. Other option is it's a crappy fuel line....doesn't feel real 'sturdy'. Appreciate any ideas!

Thanks,

[Lockjaw]

Did you replace the bulb too, or reuse the old one? The bulb should pump up firm, and stay firm. Mine takes maybe 4 or 5 good squeezes to pump up firm. I have been in and removed the Anti-syphon valve, so I have done some disassembly as well.

I would be suspicious of the bulb. Make sure you aren't pulling air in somehwere.

[rcautox]

I replaced the line and bulb. Made sure the flow arrow is pointing towards the engine.

[hulapopr]

you say "will not start/turnover" does that mean the motor isn't cranking at all or is just cranking and not starting??get a factory bulb and fuel line,i have seen those replacement bulbs be junk brand new,the arrows backwards and the line usually get hard as a rock.check the engine area for fuel leaks allowing leak down.if it isn,t even crankin that's another fish to fry..

[rcautox]

Any suggestions on where I can pickup a factory bulb & fuel line? I bought the replacement at Bass Pro. It looks the same as any I find for sale on the internet. There are no Johnson/Evinrude dealers in OKC. Could I grab an OEM from a Yamaha, Merc, etc. dealer as long as the ID of their hose is 3/8"?

[Lockjaw]

That would have to be better then a store bought one.


Also pull off the cover for the carbs and see if you can see fuel going into the fuel pump assembly. It should have a white plastic elbow where the fuel filter is, and you should be able to see the gas in the plastic elbow.

Don't drive the boat like that, just check and make sure you have it up there. You may even wish to unhook the fuel line there and squeeze the bulb and make sure you get a good strong stream. It should shoot out of there a pretty good distance. Mine off the back of the boat will go 4 to 6 feet.